Nail All Black Everything With This Fool Proof 5 Step Formula
MappCraft | Nail All Black Everything
Film Noir
Spend 10 minutes in New York City or Paris and you'll see all-black-everything is universally chic. And for good reason -- a black ensemble is classic, chic, slimming and stain forgiving. But whereas fashion editors and city dwellers can opt for head-to-toe dark if the mood strikes, many occupations (like hair stylists, for example) require a daily color void - and it can get old, quick.
Steve Jobs aptly said, "creativity is born of limited resources." Yes, it takes a bit of inspiration to make a stark palette pop - but it's not impossible. Here are 5 easy tips for adding interest to an all black outfit.
5 Fool Proof All-Black-Everything Formulas
#1 Invest in Fabric - And Fit
Your best bet to looking BAM! in black is to anchor outfits with investment staples that fit - perfectly.
MappCraft | Nail All Black Everything - Invest in fabric
Try: Leather pencil or pleated midi skirt, soft and slouchy cashmere sweater, layer-friendly ponte shift dress, sharp blazer and a show stopping silk blouse.
HINT: Shop off season for quality fabric deals - invest in a tailor for the perfect fit
#2 Work Layers
Now that you've nailed the skeleton of your wardrobe, add visual interest with layers.
MappCraft | Nail All Black Everything - Work Layers
This is where to save on fabrics, like J.Crew tissue tees (I love their turtlenecks) or the new SPANX layering line. Bodysuits are super hot right now and make a perfect outfit base for fall and winter outfits. I love the cut out details on this one by Cosabella and this version by LNA.
#3 Go All In On Details
A monochromatic palette begs for loads of embellishment - so go all in on details. Sparkle, cutouts, beading, lace, corset ties, sheer swiss dots, ribbons, laser cuts - the options are endless and all add that extra dash of pizzazz to an all black ensemble.
MappCraft | Nail All Black Everything - Embrace Details
Look for textural elements to elevate your next LBD - like this sassy BB Dakota scalloped lace dress or the classic meets edgy vibe of this MICHAEL Michael Kors Studded Sheath Dress.
#4 Get Groomed
Details stand out when you dress in one color - and it doesn't stop at embellishment. Pay equal attention to nails, hair, skin and makeup.
MappCraft | Nail All Black Everything - Get Groomed
This isn't to say you need to go full on glam with every all black outfit but your grooming game should be neat, at the least. My new mani/pedi staple is OPI Nail Lacquer in Madame President - a lovely berry red that jumps off black.
#5 Pop Color
My favorite way to emphasize an all black outfit is with a pop of color. A bold bag, shoe or lip brightens up your outfit and your outlook. The J.Crew Signet bag in the shot below earned endless complements last holiday season. Keep your eyes peeled for these Charles David Bow Slide Sandals when I launch my 2017 Holiday Capsule e-book in early November.
MappCraft | Nail All Black Everything - Pop Color
All Black Inspo
Your Turn!
Are you a fan of all black everything? Have you tried any of these styling tips? Share your thoughts and your looks on the MappCraft | Tiny Closet® Survival Guide Facebook group.
Or you can always call me and I will teach you how to work all black like a fashion editor. I’ll even make you outfit formulas and teach you how to accessorize. But don't take my word for it! MappCraft | Tiny Closet, Tons of Style® was named Best Service to Pair Down Your Closet by Washingtonian Magazine.
Be the Bright!
Jenn